Cancer Screening
Cancer occurs in dogs and cats just as in humans. Our goal at Southern Crossing Animal Hospital is early detection of cancer which allows more treatment options and more favorable outcomes.
Because early detection is the key for more successful outcomes, our focus is on the following screening:
- Comprehensive Physical Exams (twice a year)
- Blood panel with Urinalysis
- Thoracic and Abdominal Radiographs (X-rays)
- Ultrasound of Abdomen and Thorax (AFAST, TFAST)
- Tissue needle aspirates
- Tissue Biopsies
Routine exams for lumps or bumps on or under the skin are recommended. If found, needle aspirates of these masses will help us determine the origin of the mass and appropriate treatment.
Breed and age are cancer risk factors for animals. The abdominal ultrasound FAST Scan (AFAST) is an excellent screening tool to assess pets for cancer of the liver, spleen and kidney, fluid in the abdomen caused by cancer, enlarged lymph nodes and abdominal masses undetected on physical exams. AFAST scans rarely require sedation and can be performed in the office in 15-20 minutes.
Thoracic radiographs (x-rays) also offer information regarding primary cancers of the lung or metastatic (spread) cancers from other parts of the body.
Call us today if you are interested in cancer screening for your pet.